Winter Maxi Dresses

The cold temperatures and harsh winds of winter make many of us bundle up as warmly as possible. Therefore, we often reach for pants, shunning skirts that expose our legs to the elements or dresses. However, just because it is chilly out it doesn’t mean you totally have to sacrifice style. You just have to know how to shop wisely! One great option for looking girly while staying warm is a winter maxi dress.

How does a winter maxi dress differ then a just a simple one? What they have in common is that they are both full length, to the ground dresses. Lengths aside, there are really few other similarities between the two seasonal dresses. While the summer versions often feature specific prints and bright colors, the winter ones do not. If printed, the print is usually more subdued and season appropriate (for example, no palm trees!). The colors also tend to be darker and richer.

A major difference between these dresses and their summer counterparts is the fabrics that are used. In the summer, sheer, airy fabrics tend to reign. Silks, cotton and other light, thin, breathable fabrics are used to keep one cool. The styles tend to be more loose and flowy. Winter maxi dresses are constructed of heavier fabrics that are thicker and warmer. Wool and wool blends, heavier cotton and other blends are used. The silhouettes tend to not as loose and more form fitting.

In the warmer seasons, the dresses tend to often have thin straps or be sleeveless, to counteract the heaviness of the long skirt. Winter maxi dresses tend to have full length or longer sleeves, to provide more coverage against the cold. Women’s apparel company Von Vonni has several long sleeved dresses like this to choose from online.

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One of the nice things about this style is that almost anyone can wear it. Of course, if you are shorter then the average height, a lot of the dresses may be too long and you might have to look for petite versions. If you are taller then the average woman, winter maxi dresses may not reach the ground and can often fall in awkward ways, so you might have to skip or look for extra long versions.

Heights aside, this dress is suitable for all body sizes. Thin, average, heavy, plus sized- any woman can wear one. Winter maxi dresses are lovely for larger women, as they provide a lot of coverage. Many dresses, particularly summer ones, often tend to show more (or a lot) of skin, which can be both uncomfortable and unflattering on heavier frames. These dresses, however, allow you to wear a feminine dress yet still be covered up. It should be noted, however, that sometimes an excess of fabric could actually make one look heavier, so when shopping, heavier women should choose wisely.

Von Vonni has several winter maxi dresses to choose from. You can purchase them online at www.vonvonni.com, and other online retailers and select boutiques. One popular style is the Victoria Dress. It features a trim yet flowy skirt that is extra long and reaches the ground, keeping the breezes, er, gusts at bay. It has long sleeves to provide coverage, yet you can twist the top in numerous styles. Going out? Wear it off the shoulder. Going to a religious function? Give it a prim neckline.

If you are attending a swankier soiree, then the Von Vonni Flora dress is appropriate. It comes in more wintry colors such as red, black and jade, which are good choices for nice functions and because the dress is made of silk charmeuse, it makes them jewel toned and shiny. Because it is winter and your event will be inside, the fact that it is made of silk isn’t too much of a problem, and it is not sheer.

It features a V front and back, and is sleeveless, but as we mentioned previously, because you are most likely going from your car or cab to inside the event, bundled in a coat, this should not be a problem. It is a kimono style, very drapey, and reaches the ground.  It features a grosgrain belt, which you can tie for different looks or not even wear at all. A great winter maxi dress.

Winter maxi dresses are suitable for all occasions for the most part. If you have a relaxed yet tailored work environment, you can wear certain styles as you are not exposing much skin and these dresses tend to have an elegant yet refined look. The brighter styles in nicer fabrics can be worn to formal events. A casual cotton style in a basic color is perfect for everyday activities.